Former Kolkata CP Supratim Sarkar Assigned as Police Observer in Tamil Nadu Elections
Synopsis
The Election Commission of India has appointed Supratim Sarkar, the ex-commissioner of Kolkata Police, to serve as a police observer in Tamil Nadu as both states gear up for elections. His request for exemption due to health concerns remains pending.
Key Takeaways
Supratim Sarkar has been assigned as a police observer in Tamil Nadu .
The move aims to ensure fair electoral practices amidst ongoing elections.
Sarkar has requested exemption due to health concerns, pending the Commission's decision.
The BJP has demanded his removal from West Bengal to avoid potential electoral manipulation.
Sarkar is currently the Additional Director General of the CID in West Bengal.
Kolkata, April 4 (NationPress) The Election Commission of India (ECI) has instructed the former Kolkata Police Commissioner, Supratim Sarkar, to serve on deputation as a police observer in Tamil Nadu, which is preparing for elections similar to those in West Bengal later this month.
Nonetheless, Sarkar has requested the Commission for an exemption from this posting due to health reasons, as confirmed by a source from the Chief Electoral Officer (CEO) office in West Bengal.
Just days prior to the announcement of polling dates for West Bengal, Sarkar had been appointed as the Kolkata Police Commissioner by the West Bengal Government, succeeding Manoj Kumar Verma.
However, following the enforcement of the Model Code of Conduct, the Commission removed him from his position and prohibited him from participating in any election-related duties in West Bengal. Ajay Nana took over Sarkar's responsibilities as directed by the ECI.
Despite this, there were ongoing demands from opposition parties, particularly the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), to relocate Sarkar from the state during the polling period. Ultimately, on Saturday, the Commission mandated Sarkar to go on deputation as a police observer in Tamil Nadu.
The BJP argued that unless Sarkar was removed from the state during the West Bengal polling period, he would continue to influence the electoral process on behalf of the ruling Trinamool Congress while occupying a position within the state’s police administration.
Currently, Sarkar is acting as the Additional Director General of the Criminal Investigation Department (CID) of the West Bengal Police. Following the Commission's direction, he has been assigned as the police observer for the Tirunelveli, Ambasamudram, Palayamkottai, Nanguneri, and Radhapuram Assembly constituencies, all located in Tirunelveli district of Tamil Nadu.
Although Sarkar has requested relief from this assignment to Tamil Nadu, the Commission has not yet determined whether to grant his plea.
Point of View
The deployment of Supratim Sarkar as a police observer in Tamil Nadu raises questions about electoral integrity and the influence of key officials in sensitive election periods. This move reflects the ongoing tensions between state and central political forces.
NationPress
20 Jun 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
Why was Supratim Sarkar appointed as a police observer in Tamil Nadu?
The Election Commission of India appointed Supratim Sarkar to ensure impartiality during the elections in Tamil Nadu, amid claims that he could influence the polling process in West Bengal.
What was Supratim Sarkar's response to his deputation?
Sarkar requested the Election Commission for relief from his deputation on medical grounds, but the Commission has not yet responded to his plea.
What role does the Election Commission play in elections?
The Election Commission of India oversees the conduct of free and fair elections, ensuring that all electoral processes adhere to established guidelines.
Who succeeded Supratim Sarkar as Kolkata Police Commissioner?
Ajay Nana succeeded Supratim Sarkar as the Kolkata Police Commissioner following his removal from the position.
What are the implications of deploying police observers in elections?
Deploying police observers is crucial for maintaining order and fairness in elections, helping to prevent any undue influence or manipulation by local authorities.
